Getting Braces As An Adult? Watch Out For These Issues To Ensure The Braces Work Well
Sometimes you just have to get braces, even as an adult; they're the only way to fix whatever is going on with your teeth. If you've never had braces before, though, you likely don't know some of the warning signs to look out for as you get used to the braces. If you encounter any of the following issues, take action immediately to rectify them.
Loose Brackets
If you ever discover that one of the brackets on your teeth is a tiny bit movable, get back into the orthodontist's chair immediately. Not only could a loose bracket -- even slightly loose -- affect the progress of all your teeth. This could lead to needing the braces for an extended period of time, which means more appointments.
Wire Ends
Every time you go to get the braces adjusted, a new wire will be threaded through the brackets. The ends will be cut off, but sometimes the dental assistant doesn't cut off enough, so you have these pokey little wires at the back of your mouth. Go back into the office; the assistant should be able to trim those ends off.
That Tongue of Yours
New braces? You bet your tongue is going to find its way to the brackets and wires unconsciously and start poking around. Try to stop yourself from doing this because you can irritate your tongue. It may take practice and some time, but eventually, you'll get used to the braces and get good enough at resisting the tendency to poke at the braces and wires with your tongue that it won't be a worry anymore.
Your Eating Patterns
When you get the braces, you're going to have to change how you eat. Beyond the common sense to not eat chewing gum, there are other changes you will need to make. Using forks and knives to cut items like apples into tiny pieces instead of biting down into the food with your teeth (because biting down increases the risk of tearing off the brackets, which is not a lovely thought). Be extremely careful in your first few weeks of wearing the braces that you prepare your food properly. Don't eat mindlessly as that just leads to an increased risk of biting down and damaging the braces.
Your orthodontist can also help you develop strategies for adjusting to braces for adults. Getting used to the braces and not irritating your mouth or accidentally knocking off a bracket or two in the process will ensure you get your braces off as soon as possible.